Molar pregnancy

Overview

Molar pregnancy is a rare complication of pregnancy that involves the abnormal growth of cells called trophoblasts. These cells typically form the organ that feeds a growing fetus, known as the placenta. Molar pregnancy can occur in two types: complete molar pregnancy and partial molar pregnancy.

Types of Molar pregnancy

1. Complete Molar Pregnancy: In a complete molar pregnancy, the placental tissue swells and appears to form fluid-filled cysts. There is no fetus present.
2. Partial Molar Pregnancy: In a partial molar pregnancy, some normal placental tissue is present alongside the abnormal trophoblastic cells.

Causes of Molar pregnancy

The exact cause of molar pregnancy is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to genetic abnormalities during fertilization. Some possible causes include:

1. Genetic Mutations: Genetic mutations in the sperm or egg can lead to abnormal cell growth.
2. Fertilization Errors: Errors during fertilization can result in abnormal cell growth.
3. Hormonal Imbalance: Hormonal imbalances can affect the development of the embryo.

Risk Factors of Molar pregnancy

Several factors can increase the risk of developing molar pregnancy:

1. Age: Women over 35 years old are more likely to develop molar pregnancy.
2. Family History: Women with a family history of molar pregnancy or other reproductive disorders may be more likely to develop molar pregnancy.
3. Previous Molar Pregnancy: Women who have previously experienced molar pregnancy are at higher risk of developing it again.
4. Fertility Treatments: Women who have undergone fertility treatments such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) may be at higher risk of developing molar pregnancy.

Symptoms of Molar pregnancy

Preventions of Molar pregnancy

There is no guaranteed way to prevent molar pregnancy, but some strategies may help reduce the risk:

1. Genetic Counseling: Genetic counseling can help identify genetic mutations that may increase the risk of molar pregnancy.
2. Fertility Treatments: Using high-quality fertility treatments such as IVF can reduce the risk of developing molar pregnancy.
3. Prenatal Care: Regular prenatal care can help identify potential complications early on.

Diagnosis of Molar pregnancy

Diagnosing molar pregnancy typically involves a combination of physical examination, medical history, and laboratory tests. The following tests may be performed:

1. Ultrasound: Ultrasound examination to assess fetal growth and detect abnormalities.
2. Blood Tests: Blood tests to measure hormone levels and detect abnormal trophoblastic cells.
3. Dilation and Curettage (D&C): D&C procedure to remove abnormal tissue from the uterus.

Treatment for Molar pregnancy

Treatment for molar pregnancy typically involves removing the abnormal tissue from the uterus using a D&C procedure. In some cases, additional treatment may be necessary to prevent complications:

1. Methotrexate Therapy: Methotrexate therapy may be necessary to prevent choriocarcinoma from developing.
2. Placental Tissue Removal: Removal of abnormal placental tissue from the uterus.

When to seek medical attention ?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, it is recommended that you see a doctor:

1. Severe Morning Sickness: Severe morning sickness that does not improve with treatment.
2. Heavy Bleeding: Heavy bleeding during the early stages of pregnancy.
3. Abdominal Pain: Abdominal pain that persists or worsens over time.